Accompaniment to the promotion of life projects of HIV-positive young people. A complex qualitative study

Abstract

The diagnosis of infection with HIV constitutes a disruptive vital event in the lives of young people. The HIV-positive condition is frequently perceived as a death sentence, in addition to presenting multiple barriers during daily life, such as stigma, self-stigma, discrimination, isolation, and symptoms of anxiety-depression. Especially the configuration of personal identity and planning for the future, positively and realistically, constitute two severely affected processes, hence the importance of promoting the life projects of HIV-positive young people through comprehensive care. The study was carried out using a qualitative design in two stages, one with a phenomenological design and the other through the focus group and thematic analysis. The main results point to the importance of encouraging goals that promote therapeutic adherence, facilitate psychological well-being, help social integration, and favor the structuring of a solid support network. In addition, guidelines are offered for better preparation of proposals for the promotion of life projects in this population. The article ends with recommendations for future studies.